Hysterectomy
Description
Hysterectomy refers to the removal of the uterus and is a commonly performed operation - possibly more than is medically necessary. Some 600,000 women undergo this surgery each year in the United States (40% of the total world total).
The most common type, is a total hysterectomy, in which the uterus and cervix are removed. Depending upon the underlying cause e.g. fibroid tumors, endometriosis, the fallopian tubes and ovaries may be removed as well.
In cases of cervical cancer, a radical hysterectomy includes the pelvic lymph nodes.
The sub-total hysterectomy, which leaves the cervix, is considered obsolete.
An abdominal incision is required for the more extensive procedures, although the uterus and cervix may be removed entirely vaginally.
Causes
Hysterectomies have been carried out in the past on mentally retarded people in order to spare them menstruation and pregnancy. This is now frowned upon. The most common reasons are heavy bleeding (either menorrhagia or endometriosis) which is resistant to other interventions and cancer. If a woman suffers from prolapse and has completed her family, hysterectomy is an option.
Signs & Symptoms
Pain, prolapse and profuse bleeding would be common indications of a serious problem requiring a surgical solution.
Nutritional Supplements
Structure & Function: Women's Health
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General Supplements
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| B Complex | 100 mg bid |
| Boron | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 2,000 mg |
| EPO | 500 - 1,000 mg |
| Magnesium | 1,000 mg |
| Potassium | 100 mg |
| Vitamin C | 3,000 - 6,000 mg |
| Vitamin E | 400 IU |
| Indole 3 Carbinol* |
*Please refer to the respective topic for specific nutrient amounts.
Note: All amounts are in addition to those supplements having a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Due to individual needs, one must always be aware of a possible undetermined effect when taking nutritional supplements. If any disturbances from the use of a particular supplement should occur, stop its use immediately and seek the care of a qualified health care professional.
Dietary Considerations
A low fat, hypoglycemic diet may be beneficial. The emphasis is upon carrots, cruciferous vegetables and soy foods.
Homeopathic Remedy
| Description | Remedy |
| Cyst on right ovary | Apis Mellifica |
| Dysmenorrhea | Viburnum opulus |
| Endometriosis | Helonias Dioica tinct. |
| Healing | Arnica montana tinct. |
| Left ovary (ovaritis) | Vespa crabro |
| Mucosal pain | Ammonium bromatum |
| Ovarian cysts | Aurum iodatum |
| Ovaritis | Palladium |
| "Dropped uterus" | Lilium tigrinum |
Treatment Schedule
Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies may be single strength (of fairly weak potency e.g. 6X ) or a blend of several weaker strengths (6X, 8X, 10X).
This may comprise a single remedy, or several remedies.
Doses are administered on a 3 times daily (tid), between meals,schedule and continued for 3 days.
Liquid preparations usually use 8-10 drops per dose.
Solid preparations are usually 2 or 3 pellets per dose.
Children use 1/2 dose i.e. 1 pellet.
If there is aggravation of the symptoms, stop taking the remedy and consult a homeopath.
References
Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.
Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.
Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.
Herbal Approaches
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Herbs
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Anise
Dong Quai
Fennel
Fenugreek
Ginseng
Licorice
Red Clover
Sage
Suma
Wild Yam
Note: The misdirected use of an herb can produce severely adverse effects, especially in combination with prescription drugs. This Herbal information is for educational purposes and is not intended as a replacement for medical advice.
Aromatherapy - Essential Oils
Over the long term, essential oils are required for this surgical menopause, especially if the ovaries are removed:
| Bergamot Essence, | Clary Sage Essence, |
| Coriander Essence, | Geranium Essence, |
| Jasmine Essence, | Nutmeg Essence, |
| Rose Essence, | Rosewood Essence, |
| Sage Essence, | (Red) Thyme Essence. |
Related Health Conditions
Cancer
Cervical Dysplasia
Endometriosis
Ptosis
Venereal Disease
References
Adachi JD et al., A double-blind randomised controlled trial of the effects of medroxyprogesterone acetate on bone density of women taking oestrogen replacement therapy. Br J Obstet Gynaecol, 1997 Jan, 104:1, 64-70.
Brett KM et al., Epidemiology of hysterectomy in the United States: demographic and reproductive factors in a nationally representative sample. J Womens Health, 1997 Jun, 6:3, 309-16.
Carranza-Lira S et al., Changes in symptomatology, hormones, lipids, and bone density after hysterectomy. Int J Fertil Womens Med, 1997 Jan-Feb, 42:1, 43-7.
Denke-MA: Effects of continuous combined hormone-replacement therapy on lipid levels in hypercholesterolemic postmenopausal women. Am-J-Med. 1995 Jul; 99(1): 29-35 .
Griffenberg L et al., The effect of dietary fiber on bowel function following radical hysterectomy: a randomized trial. Gynecol Oncol, 1997 Sep, 66:3, 417-24.
Schricker T et al., Assessment of perioperative glycerol metabolism by stable isotope tracer technique. Nutrition, 1997 Mar, 13:3, 191-5.
Stoney CM et al., A natural experiment on the effects of ovarian hormones on cardiovascular risk factors and stress reactivity: bilateral salpingo oophorectomy versus hysterectomy only. Health Psychol, 1997 Jul, 16:4, 349-58.
Wahab M et al., The effect of long-term oestradiol implantation on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women who have undergone hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy. Br J Obstet Gynaecol, 1997 Jun, 104:6, 728-31.
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